| PLACES TO VISIT | Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue, Trongsa, Bumthang, Haa, Mongar, Lhuentse, Trashiyangste, Trashigang, Samdrup Jongkhar |
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| PACKAGE EXCLUDES |
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| EXIT | Guwahati |
Paro Rinpung Dzong
Rinpung Dzong or the "fortress on a heap of jewel" was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang
Namgyel in 1646. Its majestically on a hill overseeing the Pa chhu(river) and offers a
panoramic view of Paro valley.
Taa Dzong
Taa Dzong or watch tower was built in 1645 by Paro penlop La Ngoenpa Tenzin Drukda
together with Desi Minjur Tempa. It was built to protect the Dzong(fortress) and the
valley from unceasing attacks from outside. The watchtower was converted to a national
museum in 1967. The museum has an exhibit several antiques and relics of Bhutan, they
also exhibits the natural history and cultural practices.
Dungtse Lhakhang
Visit the impressive 3 storied Dungtse Lhakhang/temple, built in the mid 1430’s by
Thangtong Gyelpo, the iron bridge builder, to subdue a demon and the temple is firmly
chained to the ground. The three floors of the temple represent hell, heaven and earth
and house some of the finest murals in Bhutan. In the evening, visit a traditional
farmhouse replete with paddy fields, vegetable garden and farm animals. Enjoy a hot
stone bath in a wooden tub, get some cooking tips and help in preparing your dinner
which you will eat in the traditional Bhutanese style with the whole family.This will
depend on your flight otherwise, you will directly check in to your hotel for the
night.
Taksang Monastery
Your highlight of the tour and a day excursion to one of the most petrified sites in
Bhutan, Taktsang Monastery / Tiger’s Nest which is about 3 hours uphill and 2 hours
down. It is located around 900 meters above the Paro valley. In the 8th Century Guru
Padmasambhava – the patron saint of Buddhism established the most sacred place in Bhutan
and meditated with his consort Khandro Yeshey Tshogyal. It is believed that Guru flew on
a female tigress in pursuit of a demon which he subdued at the current site of the
Monastery.
You can have your lunch, tea/snacks at the cafeteria midway.
Kichu Lhakhang
Before you drive back to your hotel visit the Kyichu Lhakhang/temple, one of the oldest
temples built in the 7th Century by the Tibetan King Songsten Gyembo.
Local Experience
In the evening visit a traditional farmhouse replete with paddy fields, vegetable garden
and farm animals. Enjoy a hot stone bath in a wooden tub, get some cooking tips and help
in preparing your dinner which you will eat in the traditional Bhutanese style with the
whole family. If you wish you can go for a stroll through the valley or rest in hotel.
Haa Valley
Haa's major feature is the Haa Valley. The name "Haa" depicts mysterious hiddeness. An
alternative name for the district is "Hidden-land Rice Valley". The main crops grown in
the valley are rice, wheat and barley. Other cash crops such as potatoes, apples and
chillies are also cultivated.Even though Haa is an exclusive destination excursion of
Haa still remains on the fringes of mainstream tourism and is not much visited by
tourists. Stroll through the valley, visit the few shops, interact with the locals and
yet again enjoy your visit and stay at a traditional farmhouse with all modern
facilities and amenities.
kila Gomba
The Kila Gomba Nunnery below the Pass is also located on a cliffside and consists of
several small temples and retreat huts. The nuns here live in a self imposed isolation
either in meditation or chanting and reading the holy scriptures.
Chelela Pass
Chelela Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan. with its serene views of both paro
and haa valleys, you could even see one of the highest mountains of Bhutan on a clear
weather.
From the pass drive for an hour till you reach the picturesque and remote Haa valley.
Excursion of Haa valley is truly an off the beaten path experience and has been only
recently introduced into the treasure chest of tourism in Bhutan.
Chorten Karpo and Chorten Nagpo
Both the temples are believed to be built in 7th century. Now the White temple is
converted into a fortress where it serves as both secular and monastic body. Both the
temples is located nearby so you could walk from one temple to another.
Memorial Chorten
The national memorial chorten was built in memory of third Druk Gyalpo and is dedicated
to World peace. It was initiated by Her Majesty Phuentsho Choden and erected in 1974.
It`s one of the mostly visited places by the devotees, circumambulating the stupa from
dawn until dusk.
Buddha Doerdenma
A 51 meter bronze Shakyamuni Buddha statue gilded in gold, overseeing the valley of
Thimphu. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Thimphu valley from the site of the gigantic
Lord Buddha. The site was completed in sept. 2015. We have alternative hike around the
statue with beautiful view of the valley, you could prefer to hike one of the trails.
These trails are popular for mountain biking/cycling.
Simply Bhutan Museum
The Museum is a living studio showcasing the typical life-style and practices of
Bhutanese culture and tradition. You will also witness some folk dances by the team at
the museum and you can disguise yourself with our national attire and try out archery
(national sport).
Takin Preserve
The takin enclosure is located in the Thimphu is a wildlife reserve area for takin the
national animal of Bhutan. Originally a mini-zoo, it was converted into a preserve when
it was discovered that the animals refrained from inhabiting the surrounding forest even
when set free. The reason for declaring takin as a national animal of Bhutan on 25
November 2005 (Budorcas taxicolor) is attributed to a legend of the animal`s creation in
Bhutan in the 15th century by Lama Drukpa Kuenley.
Tashichho Dzong
The fortress was built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1641. It was enlarged by desi
Tenzin Rabgay in 1694 and further renovated several times over the years. The entire
Dzong was rebuilt in 1962 under the royal command of the third king, his majesty Jigme
Dorji Wangchuck. It houses the dragon throne room of the king of Bhutan,the office of
the Je-khenpo (chief abbot), and other government agencies. It is also used as summer
residence of the monk body.
Centenary Farmers Market
If you want to join with the Bhutanese people and interact with local farmers amongst
the aroma of organic fruits and vegetables, the Centenary Farmers Market is the place to
be. Smiling tourists wonder as locals bargain with the vendors and you could even stock
up on your organic fruits for the coming days.
Stroll through the market places and the craft bazaar.
Tango and Cheri Monasteries
Built on adjacent hills both the monasteries are about one hour hike along well
maintained pathways. You can visit the Tango Monastery which also serves as a university
of Buddhist higher studies. It was founded by Phajo Drugom Zigpo in 13th century and
built in its present form by Desi Tenzin Rabgay (the 4th secular leader) in 1688.
If you want you can also hike upto Cheri Monastery or return back to Thimphu and
continue exploring Thimphu valley. Cheri Monastery is located same as Tango Monastery.
It is a buddhist monastery which was established in 1620 by Zhabdrung Rinpoche (The
unifier of the country).
Dochu la (Pass)
The serene view of the eastern Himalayas greets you with beautiful eye-catching sight of
108 small stupas built over a small hill. The collections of the stupa were built in
2005 as atonement for the loss of life caused by the flushing out of Assamese militants
in southern Bhutan. On clear weather you could see many of those highest snowcapped
mountains of Bhutan.
Lungchutse Hike
You will start your hike from Dochula Pass (3100m). The trail slowly climbs through a
forest of Hemlock, Junipers, Birch and Rhododendrons. You will have 3600 view of the
Himalayas including the highest unclimbed virgin peak (Gangkhar Puensum - 7520m) in the
world from Lungchutse Temple. Later you will hike down the same trail till you get to
Dochula Pass.
Lampari Botanical Park
Lamperi Botanical Park is the only recreational park in Bhutan. The wild life
bio-diversity in the park is very rich and there are 29 species rhododendrons which is
native to that park. This park consists of an area of 47km2. Visit botanical park
information center for more information.
The road from the Pass winds down to the warm and fertile valleys and after a brief rest
visits the Fertility Temple / Chime Lhakhang.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten
Walk for about an hour to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten stupa. It is a beautiful walk
through the pine trees, the stupa is stunning and so is the view from there.
Punakha Dzong
Punakha valley was the old capital city of Bhutan and the Punakha Dzong meaning the
"Palace of Great Bliss" was built by 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel (the first
spiritual & political leader of Bhutan) to commemorate the final victory against
numerous Tibetan invasions. Located on a piece of land between two rivers Pho Chhu and
Mo Chhu (literally meaning male and female rivers), the Dzong is massive, huge and
magnificent in all its massive architectural work. Although ravaged by flood, fire and
earthquake many times, the Dzong was always rebuilt with its original pattern and
design. The Dzong has hosted significant events such as the crowning of the first king
of Bhutan, The Royal Wedding ceremony of the Fifth King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck
to Jetsun Pema on 13th October 2011 was conducted in Punakha Dzong and important
religious ceremonies are still held in the Dzong.
Chimi Lhakhang
The site of the temple is a pleasant 30 minutes walk through mustard and paddy fields.
Standing on a picturesque hilltop the Lhakhang is famous for its fertility wish grants
to couples. Inside the walls of the Lhakhang are beautiful frescoes depicting the
colorful life of Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman regarded for his crazy methods
of teaching which included blessing women in the form of copulation!
Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley
Beautiful valleys of Gangtey and Phobjika, the surrounding villages are located in one
of the most beautiful glacial valleys of Bhutan and it is a favorite tourists place. The
valleys are also home to the endangered and graceful Black Necked Cranes in the winter
and you can see them in the marshes in the middle of the valley. In the summer the
cranes fly back to Tibet.
Gangtey Monastery and Nature Trail Hike
Visit the Gangtey Monastery located atop a hill overlooking the valley. Gangtey Gonpa is
an important Monastery of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. Hike through the serene
Gangtey Nature Trail for about an hour.
Excursion of Gangtey, Phobjika and neighboring villages, stroll through the valley and
visit few traditional houses.
Trongsa Dzong
The fortress has been witness to various significant events that would eventually lay
the foundation for the unification of Bhutan as a nation. The first and second kings of
Bhutan ruled the country from this ancient seat. Trongsa fortress is the largest
fortress in Bhutan built by Minjur Tenpa after he was appointed as Trongsa Penlop
(governer) in 1647. It was built on the site where a temple was built in 14th century by
Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk.
Taa Dzong
The watch tower (Taa Dzong), which once guarded Trongsa Dzong from external threats,
stands strategically above the Trongsa Fortress. Its was built by Chogyel Minjur Tenpa
in 1652. The meusum houses various galleries that display the historical significance of
the Dragon Kings of Bhutan and some very rare historical artifacts.
Bumthang Valley
Bumthang is compared to Switzerland for its beautiful landscape and is the spiritual
heartland of Bhutan. In the ancient times the people of Bumthang used to be frequently
disturbed by demons, wandering ghosts and negative forces.
Starting from the 8th Century, Guru Padmasmbhava and numerous religious saints and monks
visited Bumthang, subdued the demons and converted these demons into local protecting
deities. Hence there are numerous temples and monasteries each with its own legend and
significance.
Chumey Weaving Center
Bumthang is very popular for its unique traditional woolen products. You can visit the
weaving center watching the locals weaving different kinds of woolen clothings. You can
purchase some if you like to take as souvniers.
Jakar Dzong
Jakar fortress or Fortrss of the White Bird derives its name from the account of Lam
Ngagi Wangchuk, Zhabdrung's great grandfather, witnessing an auspicious omen of a white
bird landing on the site where he was building a temple. Yab Tenpai Nima later expanded
but it was only in 1646 that a larger fortress was built by Desi Minjur Tenpa where the
temple stood.
Chu Dzong
The Water Tower that has a sheltered passage that leads to a well that serves as a
access point of water during invasions. Its about 20 minutes walk from the fortress till
we get to the water tower.
Beer Brewery and Swiss Cheese Factory
Locally brewed Red Panda beer and Swiss Cheese processing factory are located just a
mile away from the main town. You can pay a visit to see the work in progress and blend
in with some local brewed beer and cheese.
Jambay Lhakhang
One of the oldest twin temple in Bhutan, which dates back to 7th century built by a
spiritual king of Tibet. It is believed to be two of the 108 temples built by him over a
span of one night along the Himalayan region.
Kurjay Lhakhang
This temple dates back to 7th century where Guru Padmasambhava (the patrion saint who
established buddhism in the country) meditated in that cave where the temple stands now.
By leaving his body imprints on that cave later the name of the temple was also so
called Kur-jey which translates "body imprints".
Tamzing Lhakhang
It is a majoy Nyingma monastery in central Bhutan which was founded in 1501 by Pema
Lingpa (he is believed to be the spiritual son of Guru Padmasambhava).
Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake)
Pema Lingpa is also a treasure revealer, this sacred lake is the place where he revealed
a treasure from beneath the lake by carrying a burning lamp in his hand where it kept
burning when he came out and so the place was named as the Burning Lake.
Tang Valley
Tang valley is one of the most remote valleys in Bumthang and today you will spend the
whole day at Tang visiting the traditional houses, the Main temples and monasteries and
the Museum and enjoy your picnic lunch at the Eco park.
It is about 3 hours drive on rugged terrain from the main town in Bumthang and enroute
you can stop at the nunnery, visit the temple and interact with the nuns. You will come
across villages on the way to Tang.
Tang Ugyencholing Palace
Today you will experience a typical homestay at Tang Ugyencholing Palace, it has been
converted into museum to attribute to the preservation and promotion of Bhutan's
historical and cultural heritage and in so doing supports the social and economic well
being of local community.
Bumthang to Mongar
Today you will be driving further east towards Mongar. Places from hereon are very rural
and you will notice the glaring difference between the Western and Eastern Bhutan. It is
about 7 hours drive from Bumthang to Monggar through high mountain passes and rural
villages. You will be driving through Phrumshing La pass which is about 3700m. You will
come across Ura village which is a clustered settlement and you can walk through the
village and visit the main temple.
The drive from Ura leads up to Phrumshing La Pass at 3,780 meters - the second highest
driving point in Bhutan (the first being the Chelela Pass in Paro). Continue drive
through Sengor village, Namling ridge, Yonkola, Thridangbi villages till you reach the
warm village of Lingmithang. Located by the riverside Lingmithang is very warm so you
can take a breather in the hot air after your cold drive till then.
From Lingmithang drive for another hour till you reach Autsho village also located by
the riverside.
An evening stroll through the single line of shops with minimum road traffic will help
your body relax
Lhuentse
In the north-eastern region of Bhutan lies the ancient region of Kurtoe or Lhuentse as
it is known today. It is ancestrial home of our kings and hosts several of the sacred
sites. It is located 77 kms from Monggar (3 hrs drive) and is one of the most isolated
districts in Bhutan approximately 1700m above sea-level. This district is very popular
for their art of weaving silk products. You can spend the night in Khoma village in home
stay, interacting with locals and see the way they weave the silk products. These silk
hand woven textiles are very beautiful and intricate in design and you will find both
men and women working on their looms.
Autsho
Autsho village falls at 980 meters and is located near a Tibetan styled brick Chorten
surrounded by 108 smaller Chorten to the riverside. Animals like the Rhesus monkey and
black cormorants have been spotted in these areas.
Takila (Giant Statue of Guru Padmasambhava)
Drive for 2 hours to Tangmachu village where a huge statue of Guru Padmasambhava
overlooks the entire valley. The golden154-ft tall statue of the patron saint of
Buddhism Guru Rinpoche seated on a 38-ft high lotus-base has been only recently
completed and consecrated. Drive on to Lhuentse Dzong located on a spur overlooking the
small town of Lhuentse. Lhuentse is the ancestral home of the Wangchuck Dynasty.
Gom Kora
Gom Kora is one of the oldest petrified site of Guru Padmasambhava (A patron saint who
introduced Buddhism in Bhutan). It dates back to 8th century.
Bumdeling National Park
Today after breakfast you will walk to the main office of the Bomdiling National Park
which is about 2 hours hike through the villages and by the river banks. On the way you
will also see men making the wooden cups and bowls for which Trashi yangtse is famous
for. During the winter season (from late October - late March) you will also see a lot
of the endangered Black Necked Cranes. Gangtey and Bomdeling are the 2 winter roosting
grounds for the Cranes in Bhutan. In the summer they fly to the colder regions of Tibet.
The Park covers an area of 1545 sq.km spanning to the regions of Tibet in the north to
India in the Northeast. It contains coniferous forests, glacial lakes, scrublands and
alpine pastures. It has over 100 species of mammals including rare animals like the
Himalayan Black bear, Snow leopard, Bengal Tiger and Red Panda. From Mid November to
early March it is a paradise for Bird watchers & lovers. There you will get to see some
of the rarest butterflies on earth besides the National Butterfly of Bhutan “The
Swallowtail” which is said to have been rediscoved after 75years and more than 100
unknown species are expected to be thriving here. The Park`s sheer beauty is worth a
visit and you will even find religious landmarks like the mystic Singye Dzong, Rigsum
Gompa/temple and Dechenphodrang Lhakhang/temple.
Chorten Kora
Right after your breakfast you will go to visit the famous Chorten Kora which was built
in 1740; it starkly resembles the Bodhisattva temple of Nepal. The temple has beside it
a black rock which has the imprint of Guru Padmasambhava`s thumb print, hat and his
body, which is a sight you must visit. Pilgrims from all corners of Bhutan and from the
Indian state of Arnachula Pradesh come to attend the famous annual Tsechu/festival where
everyone circumambulate the Chorten all night long.
Rangjung Monastery
After an early breakfast your day begins with a visit to The Rangjung Woedselcholing
Monastery. From there climb up to the beautiful valley of Radi which is amidst fields of
rice paddy and corn fields, you will find women weaving raw silk textiles called the
"Bura". If you are lucky you will also come across the highland natives called the
“Brokpas”. They are from the highlands they come to the Radi town to barter and sell yak
products. They have their own unique culture and tradition and wear yak embroidered
clothing along with spiked (downwards) hats made of yak hair.
Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar
Today`s drive is a 6-7 hour drive from the temperate Himalayas to the tropical foothills
of the Himalayas. You will notice the sharp change in vegetation and climate. The drive
is supposed to be one of the most beautiful drive with scenic landscape and it is a well
known for sighting different species of exotic birds.
Samdrup Jongkhar also known as the gateway to eastern Bhutan holds the distinct honor of
being the oldest town in Bhutan. It falls on the sub-tropical region 250m above sea
level.
Departure
After breakfast you will drive for about 2 hours from Samdrup Jongkhar to Guwahati
International Airport where your guide and driver will bid you farewell. We hope you
enjoyed your holiday and hope to see you in Bhutan again.
